Clovis, NM – Ninth Judicial District Attorney Matthew Chandler announced that James Sneed Jr., age 43, of Clovis was found guilty by a Curry County jury of one count of Trafficking Cocaine, a second degree felony, and one count of Possession of Marijuana, misdemeanor. Sneed now faces a sentence of up to 18 years in the Department of Corrections.

The charges stem from March 29, 2009, when the Region 5 Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at James Sneed’s residence. As agents entered the home to conduct the search, they observed Sneed attempting to get dressed and had underwear in his hand. Authorities immediately handcuffed Sneed and a large bag of a white substance fell out of the underwear. During the trial, jurors heard testimony from a New Mexico Crime Lab analyst who testified that the white substance was positively identified as cocaine. Additionally, agents confiscated a second bag of cocaine, a bag of marijuana, and over $1,600 in cash during the search.

The Honorable Judge Stephen K. Quinn presided over the jury trial and Assistant District Attorney Hollie Barnett prosecuted the case for the State. The jury deliberated for thirty minutes before returning with a guilty verdict on one count of Trafficking Cocaine and one count of Possession of Marijuana. Judge Quinn ordered that a pre-sentence report be completed prior to sentencing the Defendant. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled within the next ninety days where James Sneed Jr. faces a maximum incarceration period of up to 18 years in prison.

For further information concerning this case, please contact the Ninth Judicial District Attorney’s Office.